Hi Rhonda, it depends a little on what stage your starter is at. If it's still in the first week or so of being created, it can smell pretty bad (think a teenager's sweaty shoes), but the bacteria that causes these off odors will gradually be weeded out and the odor will go away. With a neglected mature starter that has been in the refrigerator too long, you may get a wiff of acetone or nail polish remover or other off odors. Consistent feeding at room temperature for a few days will likely improve the aroma and rise of your starter. As long as you're not seeing any signs of mold or other contamination, I think it's worth a shot to try to revive. 

Barb

• Reply